• Source:JND
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Shimla Traffic News: Shimla, one of Himachal Pradesh’s most popular tourist destinations, is currently overwhelmed by heavy traffic as summer holidays bring in lakhs of visitors. Over the past two weeks, more than three lakh vehicles have entered the hill station, with around half of them being tourist vehicles.

According to the Shimla district administration, this sudden surge has caused major traffic congestion, affecting daily life in the city. The Hindustan Times report cited aDeputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap as confirming that, the tourist season is at its peak, with about 1.26 lakh vehicles entering through Solan between June 1 and 15. In addition, nearly 40,000 vehicles that had entered before June 1 exited during the same time. This brings the total vehicle movement—entry and exit combined—to over three lakh in just 15 days.

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Kashyap said that on average, around 20,000 vehicles, mostly from outside Himachal Pradesh, are entering Shimla every day. He admitted that the traffic problem has reached an unmanageable level and needs immediate solutions.

Administration Plans Traffic Regulation Measures

In response, the administration is working on a comprehensive traffic management plan. A special committee, led by the Additional District Magistrate (ADM), has been formed to explore options and gather suggestions from the public. The committee is also consulting stakeholders such as school heads, transport operators, and department officials.

HRTC Buses Likely on Specific Routes

Among the measures being considered is the introduction of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses on select routes to ease congestion. Officials believe this could reduce the number of private vehicles entering the city.

Narrow Roads, Navigation Apps Add to Woes

Kashyap explained that Shimla’s narrow and restricted roads make navigation difficult, especially for visitors using Google Maps or similar tools. He said that police teams are already on duty from morning to night to manage the situation, but guidance and cooperation from the public are equally important.

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Final Traffic Strategy Under Preparation

He added that traffic issues have been growing steadily over the past five to seven years and cannot be solved without collective effort. A final traffic regulation strategy will be released soon after discussions with all concerned parties.

The deputy commissioner also appealed to locals to treat tourists with respect and hospitality, keeping in mind the principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’. He noted that incidents shared online can harm the state’s image, and it is important to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere for visitors.